The 5 Best Campsites in Galloway

March 25, 2021 in Destinations, Campsites & Scotland

Right on the border, Galloway marks the entrance to Scotland and does so with stunning nature, incredible wildlife and plenty of things to do. Everyone needs to visit Galloway once in their life, whether you’re coming from the north or south. But be warned, one trip will never be enough, as many end up becoming recurring guests of Galloway. 

Galloway is renowned for its extensive coastline, dotted with secret beaches and home to marine wildlife. You’d be surprised how close this coast reaches to Ireland, allowing you to spot the Emerald Isle on a clear day! There are plenty of cities in Galloway to keep you busy, but be sure to also stop off at Galloway Forest Park. In the miles of forests and scenic hiking and bike trails, you’ll find plenty of gorgeous spots for Galloway Forest Park camping. So let’s take a look at the five best campsites in Galloway.

Check out things to do in Galloway.

Goboony Galloway Scotland camping h2 campsites motorhome campervan

  1. Corriehall Stopover

Are you travelling without children? Then you’ll probably enjoy Corriehall Stopover, an adults-only countryside site in the heart of Galloway. It’s a ten-minute drive from Dumfries and known to be a top spot for rambling and coastal excursions. 

Corriehall Stopover is particularly appreciated by bikers, known to be quite the biker’s paradise. National Cycle Route 7 Starts nearby, as well as numerous mountain bike trails. It’s prime for exploring the area around Dumfries and heading deep into nature. They also offer secure cycle storage on site.

If that sounds a bit too rigorous, you can instead enjoy a more sedate stroll around the neighbouring countryside. You can head to the market town of Dumfries for shopping or a bite to eat. 

The site itself offers a small kitchen, toilet waste disposal, freshwater and more. 

Price: from £15 per night

Location: Old Military Rd, Lochfoot, Dumfries DG2 8NG, United Kingdom

55.052329, -3.682233

  1. Sunnymeade Caravan Park

Are you travelling with your furry friend? Well, the both of you will be more than comfortable at Sunnymeade Caravan Park. This dog-friendly motorhome site in Galloway is known for its welcoming staff and scenic location. A mere 15 minutes walk from Portpatrick village centre, you’ll be able to stock up on supplies or head out for a bite to eat.

If you’d like to go a bit further, you could spend a day on the Southern Upland Way walking trail: Scotland’s first and only official coast-to-coast long-distance route. If you’re looking for a shorter hike, you could travel the fifteen minutes to the ruins of Dunskey Castle and look over the Irish Sea. On a good day, you’ll even be able to spot Ireland. 

Those who like to keep busy will appreciate all the activities offered at Sunnymeade Caravan Park. These include golf, sea fishing and cycling. At the campsite itself, you can appreciate their clean facilities, including a laundry room, toilet block with showers, and free wifi. The site was kept low key to maintain the peaceful vibe of the area. Truly an ideal place to wind down and escape the bustle of your daily life.

Price: from £15 per night

Location: Portpatrick, Stranraer DG9 8LN, United Kingdom

54.842924, -5.107531

  1. Galloway Activity Centre

Some people go on holiday to relax; others go for adventure and the chance to escape their comfort zone! If you sound like the latter, then Galloway Activity Centre is the place for you. Spend your day enjoying everything they have to offer, and then you won’t have to drag your tired body far, instead parking up on one of their grassy pitches.

And what exactly does this campsite in Galloway have to offer? Team up for a game of laser combat, or zoom down one of their zip wires. Try your luck with a bow and arrow, or pull on a harness and start rock climbing. There is truly something for everyone! If you feel more comfortable on water than land, you could sign up for sailing, windsurfing or paddle sports. 

The best part? You don’t have to settle for one! By parking up with your motorhome, you can fill a long weekend with various activities. And if you’re too tired to cook, you can head to the site cafe for delicious evening nosh or to grab food for breakfast.

Whether you’re travelling with your family, friends, colleagues or even on your own, make a stop at Galloway Activity Centre for the time of your life!

Price: from £21 per night

Location: Loch Ken, Shirmers Bridge, Parton, Castle Douglas DG7 3NQ, United Kingdom

55.037154, -4.100756

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  1. Southerness Holiday Park

At the foot of the Galloway Hills, you’ll find Southerness Holiday Park. This family-friendly campsite boasts spectacular views of Solway Firth, as well as a bar-restaurant, takeaway and 25-metre indoor pool.

It truly offers something for everyone. This campsite is the ideal starting point for numerous hikes, surrounded by countryside teeming with wildlife. You can take the little ones to the neighbouring beach to explore rock pools. Or the older kids might appreciate following greats stags in Galloway Forest Park.

One of the prime choices for Galloway Forest Park camping, Southerness Holiday Park allows you to determine to what extent your trip will be glamping or if you’d prefer to rough it up and head into the wilderness. Either way, nothing beats ending your day with a good takeaway, enjoyed under your awning as you watch the sun go down!

Price: from £9 per night

Location: Southerness Holiday Village, Southerness, Dumfries DG2 8AZ, United Kingdom

54.875900, -3.600745

  1. Brighouse Bay Holiday Park

Not only is this campsite pet-friendly, but it is also kid-friendly! If there is one assurance at Brighouse Bay Holiday Park, it’s that your children will never be bored. The campsite features heaps of activities, six fishing ponds, a private beach and hiking routes. From their jacuzzi to their steam room, their fitness centre to the 10-pin bowling alley, Brighouse Bay Holiday Park truly offers it all!

This campsite is also known for its incredible sea views, as well as the stargazing opportunities. Brighouse is also environmentally friendly, teeming with wildlife and aimed at a country park view. 

This is genuinely the best campsite in Galloway for families and those travelling with young children. But it’s also a delight for the parents, who can enjoy a cold drink in the bar to finish off a day of camping in Galloway!

Price: from £25 per night

Location: Graplin Lodge, Borgue, Kirkcudbright DG6 4TS, United Kingdom

54.784877, -4.134059

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Now that you’ve seen our top picks for camping in Galloway, all that’s left is to hire a motorhome in Scotland and hit the road! If you can’t choose between these gorgeous campsites in Galloway, why not make a road trip out of it? You could use an existing road trip itinerary, like the South West Coastal 300. Or you could set out on your own, using a road trip planner and forging your own path! Either way, you’re sure to have an incredible time camping in Galloway.